U.S. patent application number 11/443185 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-30 for anchoring device.
Invention is credited to Daniel Plante.
Application Number | 20060266910 11/443185 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34834882 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060266910 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Plante; Daniel |
November 30, 2006 |
Anchoring device
Abstract
An anchoring including a stake and a flange extending radially
outwardly from the stake. The flange has a flange fixed section and
a flange movable section movably attached to the flange fixed
section. The flange movable section is selectively movable between
an aligned configuration and an angled configuration, wherein in
the flange angled configuration, the flange movable section is
angled relative to the flange fixed section and, in the flange
aligned configuration, the flange movable section is in a
substantially co-planar relationship relative to the flange fixed
section. The flange movable section is adapted to act as an auger
for facilitating the insertion of the stake in the ground material
when in the flange angled configuration and to co-operate with the
flange fixed section when in the flange aligned configuration to
assist in stabilising the stake in the ground material.
Inventors: |
Plante; Daniel; (St-Hubert,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
INENTION QUEBEC INC.;Suite 202
8065, Boul. Viau
Montreal
QC
H1R 2T2
CA
|
Family ID: |
34834882 |
Appl. No.: |
11/443185 |
Filed: |
May 31, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
248/499 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E02D 5/801 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
248/499 |
International
Class: |
B65D 63/00 20060101
B65D063/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 31, 2005 |
GB |
0511041.6 |
Claims
1. An anchoring device for being anchoring into a ground material
using a driving force, said anchoring device comprising: a
substantially elongated stake extending substantially along a stake
longitudinal axis, said stake defining a stake first end and a
longitudinally opposed stake second end; a flange extending
substantially radially outwardly from said stake, said flange
having a flange fixed section and a flange movable section movably
attached to said flange fixed section; said flange fixed section
extending substantially in a fixed section geometrical plane; said
flange movable section being selectively movable relative to said
flange fixed section between an aligned configuration and an angled
configuration, wherein in said flange angled configuration, said
flange movable section is angled relative to said flange fixed
section; in said flange aligned configuration, said flange movable
section is in a substantially co-planar relationship relative to
said flange fixed section; whereby said flange movable section is
adapted to act as an auger for facilitating the insertion of said
stake in said ground material when in said flange angled
configuration and to co-operate with said flange fixed section when
in said flange aligned configuration to assist in stabilising said
stake in said ground material.
2. An anchoring device as recited in claim 1, wherein said fixed
section geometrical plane extends in a substantially perpendicular
relationship relative to said stake longitudinal axis; said flange
fixed and movable sections both extending in a substantially
perpendicular relationship relative to said stake when said flange
movable section is in said aligned configuration.
3. An anchoring device as recited in claim 1, wherein said flange
has a substantially flat and annular configuration when said flange
movable section is in said aligned configuration.
4. An anchoring device as recited in claim 1, wherein said flange
movable section is pivotally attached to said flange fixed section
by a hinge for pivotable movement relative thereto between said
aligned and angled configurations; said hinge and said flange
movable section being configured such that upon insertion of said
stake into said ground by rotating said stake about said stake
longitudinal axis in a first rotational direction, the pressure
exerted by said ground material onto said flange movable section
biases the latter towards said angled configuration and, upon
rotation of said stake in a second rotational direction opposite
said first rotational direction with said flange inserted into said
ground material, the pressure exerted by said ground material on
said flange movable section biases the latter towards said aligned
configuration.
5. An anchoring device as recited in claim 4, wherein said flange
fixed section extends circumferentially over an arc segment between
a fixed section first end and a fixed section second end, said
fixed section first and second ends defining a flange spacing
therebetween for receiving said flange movable section; said flange
movable section having a movable section attached end and a
substantially opposed movable section free end; said movable
section attached end being pivotally attached to said fixed section
first end such that said movable section free end pivots
substantially towards said stake first end when said flange movable
section pivots towards said movable section angled configuration;
wherein when said flange is inserted in said ground material and
said flange movable section is in said movable section angled
configuration, said movable section free end is located deeper in
said ground material than said movable section attached end.
6. An anchoring device as recited in claim 5, wherein said flange
is configured such that when said flange is inserted in said ground
material, said flange movable section is biased towards said flange
angled configuration by the contact between said ground material
and said flange movable section adjacent said movable section free
end upon rotation of said stake in said stake first rotational
direction.
7. An anchoring device as recited in claim 5, wherein said
anchoring component is provided with a pivot limiter for limiting
the pivotal movement of said flange movable section to a
predetermined pivotal range.
8. An anchoring device as recited in claim 7, wherein said pivot
limiter is configured so as to prevent said movable section free
end from pivoting towards said second end beyond said flange fixed
section.
9. An anchoring device as recited in claim 7, wherein said flange
movable section is angled relative to said flange fixed section by
a movable-to-fixed section angle when in said movable section
angled configuration, said pivot limiter being configured so as to
limit the pivotal movement of said flange pivotable section to a
predetermined maximal movable-to-fixed section angle.
10. An anchoring device as recited in claim 7, wherein said flange
movable section pivots about a movable section axis, said pivot
limiter also acting as a pivot guide for guiding the movement of
said flange movable section; wherein said pivot limiter at least
partially prevents said flange movable section from moving in a
direction substantially parallel to said movable section axis.
11. An anchoring device as recited in claim 7, wherein said flange
fixed section defines a fixed section first surface and an opposed
fixed section second surface, said fixed section first and second
surfaces facing respectively substantially towards said stake first
and second ends; said flange movable section defining a movable
section first surface and an opposed movable section second
surface, said movable section first and second surfaces facing
respectively substantially towards said stake first and second
ends; said anchoring component being further provided with a
stopping component, said stopping component extending from said
fixed section second surface over at least a portion of said flange
spacing, said stopping component being configured, sized and
positioned for abuttingly contacting said movable section second
surface when said flange movable section is in said movable section
aligned configuration so as to prevent said movable section free
end from pivoting towards said stake second end beyond said flange
fixed section.
12. An anchoring device as recited in claim 11, wherein said
stopping component is provided with a stopping component aperture
extending therethrough; said anchoring component is further
provided with a guiding rod extending from said movable section
second surface into said stopping component aperture; said stopping
component aperture and said guiding rod being configured, sized and
positioned such that said guiding rod slides through said stopping
component aperture as said flange movable section pivots between
said movable section angled and aligned configuration; said guiding
rod defines a guiding rod proximal end attached to said movable
section second surface and an opposed guiding rod distal end; said
guiding rod is provided with a rod stopping protrusion extending
substantially radially outwardly therefrom for abuttingly
contacting the peripheral edge of said stopping component aperture
and limiting the movement of said flange movable section upon said
flange movable section reaching a predetermined configuration.
13. An anchoring device as recited in claim 5, wherein said hinge
includes at least one hinge ring attached to said flange fixed
section substantially adjacent said fixed section first end; a
hinged rod attached to said flange movable section substantially
adjacent said movable section attached end and extending through
said hinge ring.
14. An anchoring device as recited in claim 1, wherein said
anchoring component further includes at least one reinforcement
member extending between said flange and said stake for reinforcing
said flange.
15. An anchoring device as recited in claim 1, wherein said
anchoring component further includes a compacting component
attached thereto for compacting said ground material around at
least a portion of said anchoring component.
16. An anchoring device as recited in claim 15, wherein said
compacting component is releasably attached to said compacting
component.
17. An anchoring device as recited in claim 15, wherein said
compacting component includes a compacting tube mountable over said
stake; a compacting auger blade extending substantially radially
outwardly from said compacting tube.
18. An anchoring device as recited in claim 17, wherein said
compacting auger blade has a substantially helicoidal
configuration, said helicoidal configuration being oriented so that
rotation of said compacting tube in said stake second direction
causes said compacting auger blade to contact said ground material
towards said flange, when said compacting tube is mounted over said
stake and said compacting tube is allowed to rotate independently
relative to said stake about a tube longitudinal axis.
19. An anchoring device as recited in claim 18, wherein said
anchoring component is further provided with a stake-to-tube
coupling means for releasably coupling said stake to said
compacting tube when said compacting tube is mounted over said
stake.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of anchoring
devices and is more particularly concerned with an anchoring device
having a flange for acting selectively as an auger blade or a
stabilizing plate.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] There exists a plurality of situations wherein it is
desirable to solidly anchor objects such as temporary vehicle
shelters, balconies or the like to a ground material. Typically,
the object being anchored needs to be prevented from being lifted
from the ground and/or sinking into the ground.
[0003] The prior art is replete with various anchoring devices for
anchoring various types of objects. One of the drawbacks associated
with some prior art anchoring devices relates to the relative
difficulty with which they can be inserted into the ground. In
order to facilitate insertion into the ground, some prior art
devices are provided with auger-type blades. Such auger-type blades
are adapted to act like a screw thread or plough share to thread
the anchoring device into the ground, hence facilitating insertion
thereof.
[0004] The use of an auger-type blade, while facilitating the
insertion of the anchoring device into the ground surface tends to
loosen the ground material around the inserted portion of the
anchoring device as the auger blade is screwed thereinto. This
tends to make the stake or shaft of the anchoring device less
stable. Particularly, the anchor shaft or stake may be able to move
back and forth laterally and to loosen ground material and thereby
loosen the anchoring device such that the latter becomes relatively
ineffective.
[0005] Some prior art devices already inherently suffer from being
relatively unstable as they tend to shift or lean to a non-vertical
alignment when even moderate lateral forces are placed against
thereagainst. This situation is, in part, due to the relatively
large moment arm of the anchoring device and the relatively small
diameter of the inserted portion of the anchoring device which
provides only a limited contact between the anchoring device and
adjacent ground material. The problem of instability of anchoring
devices is compounded, in certain regions, wherein anchoring
devices are used in ground material subject to being frozen.
[0006] In an attempt to increase the stability of the anchoring
devices, some prior art anchoring devices have resorted to using
so-called stabilizing caps and/or compacting plates. U.S. Pat. No.
4,923,165, naming Boyce R. Cockman as inventor and issued May 8,
1990, for example, discloses a post anchor using both a compactor
plate and a stabilizing cap.
[0007] The post anchor includes an elongated shank having a boring
end and bracket end. An auger is carried near the boring end of the
shaft for boring a hole in the ground material. A bracket is
carried near the bracket end of the shank for attaching the post to
the shank. A compactor plate is carried by the shank near the
bracket end for compacting the soil between the compactor plate and
the auger. A stabilizing cap is further provided and includes a
footing plate and a vertical stabilizing rim which penetrates the
ground material to stabilize the anchor against lateral forces.
[0008] Prior art devices using compactor plates and/or stabilizing
caps however suffer from numerous drawbacks. Indeed, compactor
plates such as disclosed in the hereinabove-mentioned patent create
a relatively large obstructing surface which creates a significant
drag force. This drag force, in turn, makes insertion of the
anchoring device into the ground material rather difficult.
[0009] Furthermore, the compactor plate only allows for compaction
of material about a limited area adjacent the shank. As for the
stabilizing cap, it only acts near the ground surface. Also, in
some situations, the interference it creates when protruding from
the ground simply cannot be tolerated.
[0010] Accordingly, there exists a need for an improved anchoring
device. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention,
there is provided an anchoring device for being anchoring into a
ground material using a driving force, the anchoring device
comprising a substantially elongated stake extending substantially
along a stake longitudinal axis, the stake defining a stake first
end and a longitudinally opposed stake second end; a flange
extending substantially radially outwardly from the stake, the
flange having a flange fixed section and a flange movable section
movably attached to the flange fixed section; the flange fixed
section extending substantially in a fixed section geometrical
plane; the flange movable section being selectively movable
relative to the flange fixed section between an aligned
configuration and an angled configuration, wherein in the flange
angled configuration, the flange movable section is angled relative
to the flange fixed section; in the flange aligned configuration,
the flange movable section is in a substantially co-planar
relationship relative to the flange fixed section; whereby the
flange movable section is adapted to act as an auger for
facilitating the insertion of the stake in the ground material when
in the flange angled configuration and to co-operate with the
flange fixed section when in the flange aligned configuration to
assist in stabilising the stake in the ground material.
[0011] Conveniently, the fixed section geometrical plane extends in
a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to the stake
longitudinal axis; the flange fixed and movable sections both
extending in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to
the stake when the flange movable section is in the aligned
configuration. Typically, the flange has a substantially flat and
annular configuration when the flange movable section is in the
aligned configuration.
[0012] Conveniently, the flange movable section is pivotally
attached to the flange fixed section by a hinge for pivotable
movement relative thereto between the aligned and angled
configurations; the hinge and the flange movable section being
configured such that upon insertion of the stake into the ground by
rotating the stake about the stake longitudinal axis in a first
rotational direction, the pressure exerted by the ground material
onto the flange movable section biases the latter towards the
angled configuration and, upon rotation of the stake in a second
rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction with
the flange inserted into the ground material, the pressure exerted
by the ground material on the flange movable section biases the
latter towards the aligned configuration.
[0013] Typically, the flange fixed section extends
circumferentially over an arc segment between a fixed section first
end and a fixed section second end, the fixed section first and
second ends defining a flange spacing therebetween for receiving
the flange movable section; the flange movable section having a
movable section attached end and a substantially opposed movable
section free end; the movable section attached end being pivotally
attached to the fixed section first end such that the movable
section free end pivots substantially towards the stake first end
when the flange movable section pivots towards the movable section
angled configuration; wherein when the flange is inserted in the
ground material and the flange movable section is in the movable
section angled configuration, the movable section free end is
located deeper in the ground material than the movable section
attached end.
[0014] Conveniently, the flange is configured such that when the
flange is inserted in the ground material, the flange movable
section is biased towards the flange angled configuration by the
contact between the ground material and the flange movable section
adjacent the movable section free end upon rotation of the stake in
the stake first rotational direction.
[0015] Typically, the anchoring component is provided with a pivot
limiter for limiting the pivotal movement of the flange movable
section to a predetermined pivotal range. Conveniently, the pivot
limiter is configured so as to prevent the movable section free end
from pivoting towards the second end beyond the flange fixed
section.
[0016] Typically, the flange movable section is angled relative to
the flange fixed section by a movable-to-fixed section angle when
in the movable section angled configuration, the pivot limiter
being configured so as to limit the pivotal movement of the flange
pivotable section to a predetermined maximal movable-to-fixed
section angle.
[0017] Conveniently, the flange movable section pivots about a
movable section axis, the pivot limiter also acting as a pivot
guide for guiding the movement of the flange movable section;
wherein the pivot limiter at least partially prevents the flange
movable section from moving in a direction substantially parallel
to the movable section axis.
[0018] Typically, the flange fixed section defines a fixed section
first surface and an opposed fixed section second surface, the
fixed section first and second surfaces facing respectively
substantially towards the stake first and second ends; the flange
movable section defining a movable section first surface and an
opposed movable section second surface, the movable section first
and second surfaces facing respectively substantially towards the
stake first and second ends; the anchoring component being further
provided with a stopping component, the stopping component
extending from the fixed section second surface over at least a
portion of the flange spacing, the stopping component being
configured, sized and positioned for abuttingly contacting the
movable section second surface when the flange movable section is
in the movable section aligned configuration so as to prevent the
movable section free end from pivoting towards the stake second end
beyond the flange fixed section.
[0019] Conveniently, the stopping component is provided with a
stopping component aperture extending therethrough; the anchoring
component is further provided with a guiding rod extending from the
movable section second surface into the stopping component
aperture; the stopping component aperture and the guiding rod being
configured, sized and positioned such that the guiding rod slides
through the stopping component aperture as the flange movable
section pivots between the movable section angled and aligned
configuration; the guiding rod defines a guiding rod proximal end
attached to the movable section second surface and an opposed
guiding rod distal end; the guiding rod is provided with a rod
stopping protrusion extending substantially radially outwardly
therefrom for abuttingly contacting the peripheral edge of the
stopping component aperture and limiting the movement of the flange
movable section upon the flange movable section reaching a
predetermined configuration.
[0020] Typically, the hinge includes at least one hinge ring
attached to the flange fixed section substantially adjacent the
fixed section first end; a hinged rod attached to the flange
movable section substantially adjacent the movable section attached
end and extending through the hinge ring.
[0021] Conveniently, the anchoring component further includes at
least one reinforcement member extending between the flange and the
stake for reinforcing the flange.
[0022] Typically, the anchoring component further includes a
compacting component attached thereto for compacting the ground
material around at least a portion of the anchoring component.
[0023] Conveniently, the compacting component is releasably
attached to the compacting component. Typically, the compacting
component includes a compacting tube mountable over the stake; a
compacting auger blade extending substantially radially outwardly
from the compacting tube.
[0024] Conveniently, the compacting auger blade has a substantially
helicoidal configuration, the helicoidal configuration being
oriented so that rotation of the compacting tube in the stake
second direction causes the compacting auger blade to contact the
ground material towards the flange, when the compacting tube is
mounted over the stake and the compacting tube is allowed to rotate
independently relative to the stake about a tube longitudinal
axis.
[0025] Typically, the anchoring component is further provided with
a stake-to-tube coupling means for releasably coupling the stake to
the compacting tube when the compacting tube is mounted over the
stake.
[0026] Advantages of the present invention include the fact that
the proposed anchoring device is provided with a flange that can be
used selectively either as an auger blade for allowing screwing of
the anchoring device into the ground material or as a base plate
for increasing the stability of the anchoring device once inserted
into the ground material. Hence, the flange in the auger blade
configuration creates a reduced drag force and facilitates screwing
of the anchoring device into the ground. However, once inserted
into the ground, the flange may be deployed in its stabilizing
configuration which provides a relatively large face area in
friction confronting relation to the surrounding ground material.
In the stabilizing configuration, the flange hence locks the
anchoring device against both sinking under compression loads and
rising under tension loads.
[0027] In addition, the flange, in its stabilizing configuration,
reduces the risks of leakage passing around the anchoring member
that could loosen the ground material therearound.
[0028] The proposed anchoring device also allows for the compaction
of the loosened ground material along a significant portion of the
shank inserted into the ground material hence increasing the
overall lateral stability of the anchoring device.
[0029] Also, the proposed anchoring device is designed so as to be
easily inserted into the ground material in a relatively stable
configuration through a set of relatively quick and ergonomical
steps without requiring special tooling, manual dexterity or
excessive force. In particular, the flange thereof may be
selectively moved between its auger blade and stabilizing plate
configurations by merely rotating the anchoring device in selected
directions relative to its longitudinal axis.
[0030] Yet, still furthermore, the proposed anchoring device is
designed so as to be manufacturable through conventional forms of
manufacturing in order to provide an anchoring device that will be
economically feasible, long-lasting and relatively trouble-free in
operation.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] An embodiment of the present invention will now be
disclosed, by way of example, in reference to the following
drawings in which:
[0032] FIG. 1, in a perspective view, illustrates an anchoring
device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention,
the anchoring device being shown with its flange fixed section in
an aligned configuration;
[0033] FIG. 2, in a top view, illustrates the anchoring device
shown in FIG. 1;
[0034] FIG. 3, in an elevational view, illustrates the anchoring
device shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0035] FIG. 4, in a partial perspective view with sections taken
out, illustrates the anchoring device shown in FIGS. 1 through
3,
[0036] FIG. 5, in an elevational view, illustrates the anchoring
device shown in FIGS. 1 through 4 with its flange fixed section in
a flange angled configuration and with a compacting tube mounted
over its stake;
[0037] FIG. 6, in a partial elevational view with sections taken
out, illustrates some of the features of the anchoring device and
compacting tube shown in FIG. 5;
[0038] FIG. 7, in an elevational view, illustrates the anchoring
device shown in FIGS. 1 through 6 and the compacting tube shown in
FIGS. 5 and 6 with the anchoring device having its flange in an
aligned configuration and the compacting tube being removed from
the stake of the anchoring device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0039] Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown an anchoring device in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, generally
indicated by the reference numeral 10. The anchoring device 10 is
intended to be used mainly for anchoring an object (not shown) into
a ground material (also not shown). The object may take any
suitable form such as that of a car shelter, a tent, a balcony or
any other suitable object without departing from the scope of the
present invention. Also, the ground material may take any suitable
form such as that of earth, sand, clay or any other suitable ground
material without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0040] Typically, the anchoring device is adapted to be anchored
into the ground material using a driving tool (not shown) for
providing a rotational driving force. Alternatively, the anchoring
device 10 could be anchored into the ground manually. It should be
understood that various types of driving tools could be used
together with the anchoring device 10 without departing from the
scope of the present invention.
[0041] The anchoring device 10 includes a substantially elongated
stake 12 extending substantially along a stake longitudinal axis
14. The stake 12 defines a stake first end 16 and a longitudinally
opposed stake second end 18.
[0042] Typically, the stake first end 16 has a substantially
bevelled or otherwise shaped configuration such as a substantially
conical shape shown in FIG. 1 adapted to define a stake apex 20 for
facilitating the aligning and insertion of the stake 12 into the
ground material.
[0043] The stake second end 18 is typically provided with a
stake-to-tool coupling means for coupling the stake 12 to the
driving tool so as to provide a rotational driving force.
[0044] The stake-to-tool coupling means may take any suitable form.
In the embodiment shown throughout the drawings, the stake-to-tool
coupling means includes a stake coupling aperture 22 for receiving
a stake coupling pin (not shown) or the like.
[0045] The stake 12 typically has a substantially tubular and
hollow configuration. It should, however, be understood that the
stake 12 may take other forms without departing from the scope of
the present invention.
[0046] The anchoring device 10 also includes a flange 24 extending
substantially radially outwardly from the stake 12. The flange 24
has a flange fixed section 26 and a flange movable section 28
movably attached to the flange fixed section 26. The flange 24 is
typically located substantially towards the stake first end 16.
[0047] As illustrated more specifically in FIG. 3, the flange fixed
section 26 extends substantially in a fixed section geometrical
plane P. The fixed section geometrical plane P typically extends in
a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to the stake
longitudinal axis 14. It should, however, be understood that the
fixed section geometrical plane P could be otherwise angled
relative to the stake longitudinal axis 14 without departing from
the scope of the present invention.
[0048] The flange movable section 28 is selectively movable
relative to the flange fixed section 26 between an aligned
configuration shown in FIGS. 1 through 4 and 7 and an angled
configuration shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. In the flange angled
configuration, the flange movable section 28 is angled relative to
the flange fixed section 26 while in the flange aligned
configuration, the flange movable section 28 is in a substantially
co-planar relationship relative to the flange fixed section 26.
[0049] The flange movable section 28 is hence adapted to act both
as an auger for facilitating the insertion of the stake 12 in the
ground material and to act as a stabilizer for assisting in the
stabilizing of the stake 12 in the ground material respectively
when in the flange angled and aligned configurations.
[0050] As illustrated more specifically in FIG. 2, the flange 24
typically has a substantially flat and annular configuration when
seen in a top view and when the flange movable section 28 is in the
aligned configuration. It should, however, be understood that the
flange 24 could have another configuration such as a polyhedral or
any other suitable configuration without departing from the scope
of the present invention.
[0051] As seen more specifically in FIG. 2, the flange movable
section 28 typically defines a substantially arc-shaped movable
section main portion 30 and a substantially triangular-shaped
movable section auxiliary portion 32 extending integrally from the
movable section main portion 30. It should, however, be understood
that the configuration of the movable section 28 could vary without
departing from the scope of the present invention.
[0052] As shown more specifically in FIG. 4, the flange movable
section 28 is typically attached to the flange fixed section 26 by
a hinge generally indicated by the reference numeral 34, for
pivotal movement relative thereto between the aligned and angled
configurations. The hinge 34 and the flange movable section 28 are
configured such that upon insertion of the stake 12 into the ground
by rotating the stake 12 about the stake longitudinal axis 14 in a
first rotational direction, the pressure exerted by the ground
material onto the flange movable section 28 biases the latter
towards the angled configuration. The hinge 34 and the flange
movable section 28 are also configured such that upon rotation of
the stake 12 in a second rotational direction opposite the first
rotational direction with the flange 24 inserted in the ground
material, the pressure exerted by the ground material on the flange
movable section 28 biases the latter towards the aligned
configuration.
[0053] The flange fixed section 26 extends circumferentially over
an arc segment between a fixed section first end 36 and a fixed
segment second end 38. The fixed section first and second ends 36,
38 define a flange spacing therebetween for receiving the flange
movable section 28.
[0054] The flange movable section 28 has a movable section attached
end 40 and a substantially opposed movable section free end 42. The
movable section attached end 40 is pivotally attached to the fixed
section first end 36 such that the movable section free end 42
pivots substantially towards the stake first end 16 when the flange
movable section 28 pivots towards the movable section angled
configuration. Hence, when the flange 24 is inserted in the ground
material and the flange movable section 28 is in the movable
section angled configuration, the movable section free end 42 is
located deeper in the ground material than the movable section
attached end 40.
[0055] Flange 24 is configured such that when inserted in the
ground material, the flange movable section 28 is biased towards
the flange angled configuration by the contact between the ground
material and the flange movable section 28 adjacent the movable
section free end 42 upon rotation of the stake 12 in the stake
first rotational direction.
[0056] The anchoring component 10 is typically further provided
with a pivot limiter for limiting the pivotal movement of the
flange movable section 28 to a predetermined pivotal range. The
pivot limiter is typically configured so as to prevent the movable
section free end 42 from pivoting towards the stake second end 18
beyond the flange fixed section 26.
[0057] As illustrated more specifically in FIG. 6, the flange
movable section 28 is adapted to pivot relative to the flange fixed
section 26 so as to define a movable-to-fixed section angle 44. The
pivot limiter is typically configured so as to limit the pivotal
movement of the flange pivotal section 28 to a predetermined
maximal movable-to-fixed section angle 44.
[0058] As illustrated more specifically in FIG. 4, the flange
movable section 28 pivots about a movable section pivotal axis 46.
The pivot limiter is typically also adapted to act as a pivot guide
for guiding the movement of the flange movable section 28. The
pivot limiter typically at least partially prevents the flange
movable section 28 from moving in a direction substantially
parallel to the movable section pivotal axis 46.
[0059] As illustrated more specifically in FIG. 6, the flange fixed
section 26 defines a fixed section first surface 48 and an opposed
fixed section second surface 50. The fixed section first and second
surfaces 48, 50 face respectively substantially towards the stake
first and second ends 16, 18.
[0060] The flange movable section 28 defines a movable section
first surface 52 and an opposed movable section second surface 54.
The movable section first and second surfaces 52, 54 face
respectively substantially towards the stake first and second ends
16, 18 when the flange movable section 28 is in the movable section
aligned configuration.
[0061] The anchoring component 10 is typically further provided
with a stopping component 56. The stopping component 56 typically
extends from the fixed section second surface 50 over at least a
portion of the flange spacing. The stopping component 56 is
typically configured, sized and positioned for abuttingly
contacting the movable section second surface 54 when the flange
movable section 28 is in the movable section aligned configuration
so as to prevent the movable section free end 42 from pivoting
towards the stake second end 18 beyond the flange fixed section
26.
[0062] As illustrated more specifically in FIG. 4, the stopping
component 56 is typically provided with a stopping component
aperture 58 extending therethrough. The anchoring component 10 is
typically further provided with a guiding rod 60 extending from the
movable section second surface 54 into the stopping component
aperture 58. The stopping component aperture 58 and the guiding rod
60 are configured, sized and positioned such that the guiding rod
60 slides through the stopping component aperture 58 as the flange
movable section 28 pivots between the movable section of angled and
aligned configuration.
[0063] The guiding rod defines a guiding rod proximal end 62
attached to the movable section second surface 54 and an opposed
guiding rod distal end 64. The guiding rod 60 is typically provided
with a rod stopping protrusion 66 extending substantially radially
outwardly therefrom. The rod stopping protrusion 66 is adapted to
abuttingly contact the peripheral edge of the stopping component
aperture 58 and limit the movement of the flange movable section 28
upon the flange movable section 28 reaching a predetermined angled
configuration.
[0064] As illustrated more specifically in FIG. 4, the stopping
component 56 may take the form of a substantially oval-shaped ring
welded or otherwise attached about the first end thereof so as to
extend at least partially over the flange spacing. It should,
however, be understood that the stopping component could have other
configurations without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0065] The hinge 34 typically includes at least one and preferably
three or more hinge rings 68 attached to the flange fixed section
26 substantially adjacent the fixed section first end 36. The hinge
34 typically also includes a hinge rod 70 attached to the flange
movable section 28 substantially adjacent the movable section
attached end 40 and extending through the hinge rings 68.
[0066] Typically, the movable section attached end 40 is provided
with movable section ring receiving recesses 72 for receiving a
portion of corresponding hinge rings 68 and allowing the hinge rod
70 to be mounted directly on the movable section second surface 54.
Similarly, the edge of the fixed section first end 36 is typically
provided with fixed section ring receiving recesses 74 (only one of
which is shown in FIG. 4) for receiving an opposed portion of the
hinge rings 68. Typically, the hinge rod 70 extends in a
substantially parallel relationship relative to both the movable
section attached end 40 and the fixed section first end 36.
[0067] In at least one embodiment of the invention, the stopper
component 56 and the hinge rings 68 are metallic chain links or
segments welded or otherwise attached to the flange fixed section
26 and, in the case of the hinge rings 68, also welded or otherwise
attached to the flange fixed section 26. Also, in at lest one
embodiment of the invention, both the guiding rod 60 and the hinge
rod 70 are metallic rods while the stopping protrusion 66 is a
bolt.
[0068] Typically, the anchoring component 10 further includes at
least one and typically three reinforcement members or rods 76
extending between the flange 24 and the stake 12 for reinforcing
the flange 24. The reinforcing rods 76 typically extend between the
flange fixed section 26 and the stake 12. The flange 24 defines a
flange peripheral edge 78. The reinforcing rods 76 typically extend
in a configuration so as to taper from the fixed section second
surface 50 substantially adjacent the flange peripheral edge 78 to
the stake 12.
[0069] As illustrated more specifically in FIGS. 6 and 7, the
anchoring component 10 typically still further includes a
compacting component 80 attached thereto for compacting the ground
material around at least a portion of the anchoring component 10.
The compacting component 80 is typically releasably attached to the
stake 12.
[0070] The compacting component 80 typically includes a compacting
tube 82 mountable over the stake 12 and a compacting auger blade 84
extending substantially radially outwardly from the compacting tube
82. The compacting tube 82 defines a compacting tube first end 86
and a longitudinally opposed compacting tube second end 88 located
so as to be positioned respectively adjacent the stake first and
second ends 16, 18 when the compacting tube 80 is mounted over the
stake 12. The compacting auger blade 84 is typically located
substantially adjacent the compacting tube first end 86.
[0071] The compacting auger blade 84 has a substantially helicoidal
configuration. The helicoidal configuration of the compacting auger
blade 84 is oriented so that rotation of the compacting tube 82 in
the second rotational direction causes the compacting auger blade
84 to bias or compact the ground material towards the flange
24.
[0072] The anchoring component 10 is typically still further
provided with a stake-to-tube coupling means for releasably
coupling the stake 12 to the compacting tube 82 when the compacting
tube 82 is mounted over the stake 12. The stake-to-tube coupling
means may take any suitable form. In the embodiment shown
throughout the drawings, the stake-to-coupling means includes a
tube coupling aperture 90 configured, sized and positioned so as to
be put substantially in register with the stake coupling aperture
22 when the compacting tube 82 is mounted over the stake 12.
[0073] In use, the compacting tube 82 is mounted over the stake 12
until the compacting auger blade 84 is located substantially
adjacent the flange 24 such as shown in FIG. 6. Both the compacting
tube 82 and the stake 12 are coupled to a suitable rotary-type
driving tool. Typically, the compacting tube 82 and the stake 12
are coupled to the driving tool by inserting a coupling pin
simultaneously through the registered apertures 22, 90 and through
a corresponding coupling aperture of the driving tool.
[0074] The driving tool is then used to rotate both the compacting
tube 82 and the stake 12 in the first rotational direction while
exerting a downward pressure into the ground material. The rotation
of the stake 12 and, hence, of the flange 24 in the first
rotational direction causes the ground material to exert a pressure
on flange movable section 28 that pivots the latter towards the
movable section angled configuration. In the movable section angled
configuration, the flange movable section becomes an auger blade
adapted to act like a screw thread or plough share to thread the
anchoring device 10 into the ground material, hence facilitating
insertion thereof.
[0075] Once the anchoring device 10 has reached a sufficient depth
in the ground material, the rotation of the stake 12 is reversed
into the second rotational direction over a limited angular range,
causing the flange movable section 28 to pivot back towards the
movable section aligned configuration. A downward pressure may then
be imparted on the anchoring device 10 to impart a compression on
the ground material located underneath the flange 24. With the
flange movable section 28 in the movable section aligned
configuration, the flange 24 provides a relatively large face area
in friction confronting relation to the surrounding ground
material. The flange 24 hence locks the anchoring device 10 against
both sinking under compression loads and rising under tension
loads. Also, the flange increases the lateral stability of the
anchoring device 10.
[0076] Once inserted at a proper depth, the stake 12 is then
uncoupled or detached from the driving tool leaving only the
compacting tube 82 coupled or attached to the driving tool. The
driving tool is then used to rotate, preferably slowly, the
compacting tube 82 in the second rotational direction.
[0077] Rotation of the compacting tube 82 in the second rotational
direction causes the compacting auger blade 84 to push or bias the
ground material around it downwardly so as to exert a compacting
action. Hence, the sliding upward movement of the compacting tube
82 along the stake 12 causes the compacting auger blade 84 to
create a column of compacted ground material around the stake 12
hence further increasing the stability of the now inserted and
compacted anchoring device 10. The compacting auger blade 84
eventually reaches the surface and the compacting tube 82 can now
also be detached from the driving tool.
* * * * *